Pendleton Round-Up Receives Award
The Pendleton Round-Up, which has exhibited the traditions of the west for a century and become a defining event for Eastern Oregon, has been named an Oregon Heritage Tradition by the Oregon Heritage Commission.
The Pendleton Round-Up is only the second event given the honor. The first went last year to the Oregon State Fair, which began when Abraham Lincoln was president and has since attracted more than 44 million people to its events and activities.
“The Heritage Commission wants to recognize those traditions that have helped define the state,” said Commission chairman George Kramer. “They are distinguished events that are part of our heritage as Oregonians. This is certainly true of the Round-Up.”
“It’s a great honor to become only the second event in the great state of Oregon to receive the Oregon Heritage Tradition designation,” Round-Up Director Carl Culham said. “The Round-Up is pleased that the spirit of volunteerism and respect for tradition that the rodeo is dedicated to is being recognized on a state-wide basis.”
The Pendleton Round-Up Association traces its beginnings back to 1910 when a group of Pendleton businessmen headed by Roy Raley volunteered to incorporate the Northwestern Frontier Celebration Association as a non-profit entity. This group organized the first Round-Up as entertainment that gave tribute to bronc busting and American Indian dancing.
Now the association’s 17 volunteer directors, supported by a paid office staff of five and joined by two-ex-officio members, direct more than 900 volunteers to make the event a reality the second full week of September. The famed grass arena still shows off saddle bronc riding, steer wrestling and steer roping that is like it was in 1910 and other events of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association. About 30,000-40,000 spectators attend annually, including an encampment of 300 plus teepees.
It is estimated that the Round-Up brings at least a $50 million benefit every year to the service organizations, school groups and businesses. Books and films about the Round-Up have helped make Pendleton a destination for western heritage tourists. Unlike other major rodeos, the Round-Up stands fast in saluting its heritage. Sponsor signs and other commercial elements are not allowed in the arena, making the event held the second full week of September a true example of the rodeos of a century ago.
An Oregon Heritage Tradition must have been in continuous operation for more than 50 years, demonstrates a public profile and reputation that distinguishes it from more routine events, and add to the livability and identity of the state, said Commission coordinator Kyle Jansson.
The Oregon Heritage Commission coordinates efforts to solve statewide heritage issues through grants, education, and advocacy, and also promotes heritage tourism efforts.
Category: Events, Features, News & Updates
